part of the Red Bull family – and he’s one of the most recognisable players in world rugby. On-field threat + off-field branding = marketing dream.

The 2023 World Rugby Player of the Year has confirmed he’ll rejoin the Kobe Steelers in 2026, taking up a sabbatical clause in his New Zealand Rugby contract.

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The 31-year-old was a standout for Moana Pasifika this season, driving them to the brink of the Super Rugby playoffs and picking up the Super Rugby Player of the Year honour in the process.

"I have so much love for what we started with Moana this year, so I'm looking forward to coming back in 2027," Savea said.

"It's hard to leave, even though it's only for one season, but I'll be supporting the team from afar and will stay involved behind the scenes.

"This year at Moana Pasifika was the happiest I've been in my career."

Savea previously played for Kobe in 2024 and will remain eligible for All Blacks selection during his sabbatical, including the high-profile France series this year and July Tests in 2026, which follow the end of the Japanese club season.

Savea is locked in with New Zealand Rugby through to the end of 2027.

"Japan is a special place and I love the culture and the people. It's exciting to return to a club that has given me an opportunity to have beautiful experiences on and off the field," he said.

Moana Pasifika head coach Fa’alogo Tana Umaga backed the move, saying the club had been preparing for this possibility.

“Ardie obviously goes with our blessing,” said Umaga.

“These sabbaticals are part of the modern game and we have been preparing for this for some time.

“We will continue to build the momentum of our movement in 2026 and work hard to grow our game so that we will be even better when he gets back to us in 2027.”

Savea’s temporary departure is a blow—but Moana’s rise continues, and their star man will be watching closely from afar.

Let’s dive into the names being discussed behind the scenes – starting with one of rugby’s true giants.

Status: Free agent
CV: 100+ Ireland caps, 3x Lions, Grand Slam winner
Why it fits: You want experience? Leadership? Big-game IQ? Conor Murray has it all. He’s just wrapped up 15 iconic years with Munster and is actively weighing up his next move.

Racing 92 are circling, but Red Bull are believed to be pushing hard behind the scenes to hijack the move and bring him to the Premiership.

At 36, he’s not a long-term project – but as a tactical general to guide Newcastle’s rebuild, he’d be 

worth every penny. A true elite organiser with box-kicking precision and icy composure.

Status: Free agent
CV: Lions, Wales Grand Slam hero
Why it fits: He’s explosive, fearless, and brings real edge. At 33, he’s still electric – and ready for one more high-profile challenge. A perfect face for the Red Bull revolution.

Status: Available
CV: England No.8, Top 14 champ
Why it fits: Still just 27 and out of contract after leaving Gloucester. He’s physical, smart, and a born leader. Toulon are sniffing – but Red Bull could beat them to it.

Status: In the Top 14
CV: 21 England caps, Premiership title with Quins
Why it fits: A slick centre with pace and pedigree. Bonus? He’s engaged to Alan Shearer’s daughter, Hollie – a link that might just tip the scales.

Status: Free
CV: Prem winner, 200+ appearances
Why it fits: Game-changer, joker, leader. Freddie brings that clutch gene – and would be a steady hand in a new-look backline. Big-game player with serious charisma.

Status: Red Bull athlete
CV: England, Lions, Exeter legend
Why it fits: He’s already

Caveat: his past issues on synthetic pitches could be a factor. But if there's a way around that, he’s a no-brainer.